Which fast-food chain was founded in 1934 in Normal, Illinois, by Gus Belt?

Steak ’n Shake was founded in 1934 in Normal, Illinois, by Gus Belt.

Belt opened the first restaurant during the Great Depression, combining steakburgers and milkshakes in a concept designed to emphasize freshly prepared food. The name joined those two signature offerings: steak and shake.

The restaurant became known for a visible grill and counter-service format. Its early identity was different from many later drive-through-focused chains because customers could watch burgers being prepared and order thick milkshakes.

The founding year is sometimes confused with the dates of later ownership changes and franchising expansion. Gus Belt’s original Normal restaurant establishes the company’s beginning, while the brand’s national growth occurred over subsequent decades.